2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

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Viewing range on the screen
Range of view Range of view Image from camera The area from the rear end of the bumper can be viewed. Areas at both ends of the bumper and areas just under the bumper cannot be vi ...

Parking brake warning
The light illuminates with the parking brake applied while the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. It turns off when the parking brake is released. ...

Key number plate
The key number is stamped on the key number plate attached to the key set. Write down the key number and keep it in another safe place, not in the vehicle. This number is needed to make a repla ...